Las Vegas : Nevada

What it's Like to Retire in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada is one of the fastest-growing communities in the U.S. Legalized gambling in this desert resort city has created an enormous economy and attracted many new residents, including retirees in active adult communities. The Las Vegas strip is justly famous for its glitz and many attractions. Even if you don't ever bet a single nickel, it is worth it to see the astonishing architecture and excess that are Las Vegas trademarks. People who want to stay busy will find plenty to do in Las Vegas, including the opportunity for a part-time job in the tourist industry.

Las Vegas was one of the hardest-hit real estate markets in the U.S. from the post 2007 housing crash. Overbuilding and speculation created an enormous oversupply of homes, many of which were foreclosed. By 2013 there was a sharp recovery in the housing market. Photo of downtown courtesy of Wikipedia and PDPhoto.org. Photo of fountain by Jeff Russell.

Where to Retire in Las Vegas and Home Prices

There is a wide range of excellent active adult communities to choose from in this enormous metro, which extends into North Las Vegas and Henderson. The region was one of the hardest hit financially by the 2007 recession, when home prices and many developments collapsed. However, average home prices in Las Vegas have dramatically risen in the last 4 years. The median price in the first quarter of 2017 was $240,300 up sharply from 2011 when it was $124,700 (source: NAR). Prices differ tremendously by zip code. See this Las Vegas Real Estate Report

What is special about Las Vegas

An exciting place to live with something for everyone. No state income tax.

What is not special about Las Vegas

In 2010 Las Vegas was the foreclosure capital of the USA, although now it has some of the biggest price increases in the country. It is a new and artificial town with many tawdry aspects. Although there are many nice neighborhoods, driving everywhere and future water worries are real concerns.

Who will like retirement in Las Vegas

People who like living in the desert. Being a gambler or entertainment junkie would help too.

Local economy is driven by

Tourism and gambling are the major industries, although there are others.

Climate and Physical Environment

Las Vegas is in the Nevada desert - dry and mountainous. Summers are extremely hot, winters are mild. The average July high is 107 and the average January low is 37. Most rain comes in winter.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Go to the strip for any kind of entertainment and shows; the city and its casinos have dozens of excellent restaurants; there is a busy local art and music scene; the $485 million Smith Center for the Performing Arts is located downtown in Symphony Park.

Crime

As you might expect in a large resort city that is also the gambling capital of the world, the crime rate is quite high vs. the U.S. average.

Medical facilities

There are several medical centers in Las Vegas and surrounding area including Centennial Hills Hospital and Medical Center, Desert Springs Hospital, and Mountain View Hospital.

Transportation

RTC Transport is an extensive public bus system; there are also private carriers in the area. McCarran International Airport provides convenient service to just about anywhere. (plus you can play the slots while waiting for your flight). Amtrak uses its Thruway Motorcoach to connect with the railroad station in California.

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